Think of a time where a certain smell brought a good memory to mind. It’s understood that inhaling scented oils stimulates the brain’s olfactory system. At the same time a signal is sent to the limbic system of the brain. The limbic system is the seat of the emotional center and is partly responsible for our fight or flight response, emotional reactions, hormonal secretions, motivation, pain reflex and mood fluctuations.
In recent years, more and more evidence is being produced showing the benefits of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils – plant/nature-based and very aromatic – to improve psychological and physical well-being.
Various scents are chosen to reduce anxiety, ease depression, boost energy levels, speed up the healing process, eliminate headaches, boost cognitive performance, induce sleep, strengthen the immune system, reduce pain, improve digestion, and increase circulation. Your sense of smell plays a bigger role in your daily life than you may realize. Research shows evidence that people who have lost their sense of smell or who have a reduced sense of smell are at higher risk for psychological disorders.
Ancient cultures – the Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and the Chinese have all used scent-based treatments for ailments throughout history. Various essential oils and combinations of oils can be sedating, stimulating, pain-relieving, or soothing. They can act as a diuretic, muscle-relaxer or anti-inflammatory.
Here at Exceptional Wellness we use aromatherapy as a complement to our other therapeutic practices which include yoga and mental health therapy. We use pure essential oils, which contain only natural ingredients and further enhance the mind-body benefits of the session.
In health…
Your Exceptional Wellness Team